The NVMTA Bach Baroque Festival and Competition takes place annually to celebrate the timeless music of
Johann Sebastian Bach and other Baroque composers. On Saturday, February 21, 2026, Columbia Church in
Falls Church generously hosted the event for the third year in a row.
Over 250 talented piano and string students participated in both festival and competition categories. Students
played in hour-long recitals and filled the large church with beautiful baroque music. 2nd round judge Immanuela
Gruenberg chose 27 exceptional students to perform in the coveted Honors Recital held on February 28th.
A highlight of the event, always, was the chance to play the harpsichord. Vera Kochanovsky again lent us her
beautiful instrument, and again, students were always delightfully surprised at the difference in sound between
harpsichord and piano. Same piece, totally different experience. So much easier than articulation on the piano!
The harpsichord formed a hub of connection and sharing among parents, students and teachers. Plus, it was a
great place for parents to take photos for their memory boxes.
For prospective students and teachers new to the event, there’s no need to worry about high standards of
performance levels. Many teachers first enter students in the more relaxed festival division. If they like more
intensity and challenge they may enroll in the competitive competition division.
A special aspect of this event is that students play in categories by chosen repertoire. A recital hour of 2 part
inventions may include both 8 year olds, 15 year olds and all ages in-between. After students make their J. S.
Bach repertoire selection, they frequently choose another baroque composer for their 2 nd selection. There are
so many composers to choose from – Handel to Vivaldi, Telemann to Corelli, the repertoire offers a wide array
of musical styles across 5 countries, from the early to late Baroque periods. The recital format ensures that
both students and audiences listen to a wide variety of repertoire.
We welcome all of NVMTA, local associations in NOVA and those throughout Virginia and beyond to join our
event. The NVMTA Bach Baroque website provides details about repertoire selection, teacher work
responsibilities and fees, Bach Baroque Description Page.
